St. Vincent and the Grenadines Map / Geography of St. Vincent and the Grenadines / Map of St. Vincent and the Grenadines - Worldatlas.com Print this map The large island now named Saint Vincent was originally called Hairouna ("The Land of the Blessed") by the native Caribs, and those Caribs boldly prevented any European settlement in their homeland until the 18th century. In fact, Christopher Columbus sailed past these islands in 1492, and it would be a few hundred years before this thickly forested landscape was settled by any outsiders. In the early 18th century, the French arrived, gained partial control of the island, and began cultivating coffee, cotton, tobacco and sugar on plantations. Those plantations, like most early plantations in the Caribbean, were worked by enslaved Africans and native Caribs. For most of the 18th Century, the British , French and Carib Indians fought for control. There were numerous bloody battles, with the British gaining total control in 1790s, and all of the remaining Caribs were shipped to Central America . Over time, African slavery in St.

Vincent became a hot-button issue in England as repressive rules forced on the blacks (used to cultivate sugar cane and other products) were brutally enforced by the white plantation owners. When the British abolished the African slave trade in 1807, misery continued until 1834, when slavery (itself) was finally abolished in the British Empire, as well as in St. Vincent, and in other British colonies. Adding to that misery, the La Soufriere volcano erupted in 1902, killing 2,000 people. Much of Grenadine's farmland was damaged, and the island's economy deteriorated rapidly. By British decree, St. Vincent was given complete control over its internal affairs in 1969, and finally, on October 27, 1979, St. Vincent and the Grenadines became the last of the Windward Islands to gain independence. St. Vincent and The Grenadines (the country) is comprised of some 32 islands and cay's stretching south (about 48 miles) to the country of Grenada. The big island of St.

Vincent (volcanic in origin) has a rugged mountainous terrain, lush forests and many uncluttered beaches and inlets. The port city of Kingstown is one of the most picturesque in the Caribbean . The Grenadines include Bequia, Canouan, Mustique and Union, and a group of smaller (many unpopulated) islands. All are low-lying, ringed by coral reefs, and famed for some of the best beaches and sailing conditions on the planet. Today the overall economy of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines revolves around agriculture, with bananas and coconut palms the major cash crops. Tourism is a growing business (especially on St. Vincent), but on the outer islands, smaller crowds, isolated beaches and quiet days are the norm. It currently has a population of 103,537. See Also St Vincent Island | Saint Vincent Travel Guide Caribbean St Vincent Map La Soufriere volcano is 4,000 feet above sea level at it's crater and has erupted twice in recent times; the most serious eruption in 1902 killed 2,000 people and again in 1979 (with no loss of life).

Carib Indians prevented St Vincent from being settled until 18th Century. Ownership of Saint Vincent passed between the British and French and then back to the British in 1763. St Vincent and the grenadines gained full independence from Britain in 1979. Today the island is a popular tourist destination, particularly with sailors who come in vast numbers to explore the grenadine islands. The most well known is Mustique for it's famous residents and opulent private villas. St Vincent can be reached from Europe and North America via local connecting flights in Barbados, Grenada, St Lucia and Trinidad. Travel, cruise, vacation and cruise guide to St Vincent and the Caribbean. All text and images are Copyright Paradise Islands org. All photographs on this Caribbean travel guide website are obtained with the permission of the owners and come from various sources including the islands tourist boards. Some of our own maybe reproduced with permission - please see notes attached to each image to avoid any copyright penalty. Please Link to this page from another website, blog or social networking site?

The URL of this page is: Quick Facts St Vincent and the Grenadines | A 32-island Caribbean Paradise St Vincent and the Grenadines TRUE -001-11-30T00:00:00-05:00 152.84kb 601 1600 St Vincent and the Grenadines TRUE -001-11-30T00:00:00-05:00 155.1kb 601 1600 St Vincent and the Grenadines TRUE -001-11-30T00:00:00-05:00 188.65kb 601 1600 St Vincent and the Grenadines TRUE -001-11-30T00:00:00-05:00 199.79kb 601 1600 St Vincent and the Grenadines TRUE -001-11-30T00:00:00-05:0

0 236.96kb 601 1600 St Vincent and the Grenadines TRUE -001-11-30T00:00:00-05:00 135.63kb 601 1600 St Vincent and the Grenadines Discover St Vincent and the Grenadines for yourself Discover St Vincent and the Grenadines for yourself 360p 600x315 This chain of less-traveled islands lures everyone from yachties on holiday to glitzy celebrities looking for escape.

Visit Official Website A necklace of 32 islands and cays, only nine of them inhabited, St. Vincent and the Grenadines is one of the most popular destinations in the world for leisure sailors, who flock here for its numerous uncrowded anchorages and charming ports of call. Snorkelers and divers are drawn by this country’s many underwater attractions, especially the coral-luscious Tobago Cays... (View More) And those who just want to get away from it all are drawn to the remote private-island resorts. Because of the many private islands, secluded black and white sand beaches and lush tropical vegetation, St. Vincent & the Grenadines seems to have been created with destination weddings, vow renewals and honeymoons in mind. Under The Volcano St. Vincent, “the mainland,” is almost 18 miles long and made imposing by its seething giant, La Soufrière volcano, which last erupted in 1979. Thick banks of clouds typically shroud La Soufrière, making its peak a rare sight. Guides lead hikes that wind through the surrounding forest for a close-up view. St.

Vincent’s other natural attractions include the Falls of Baleine, spectacular cascades that are accessible only by boat, and the broad and verdant valleys of the Mesopotamia region, the island’s breadbasket, with rows upon rows of banana trees. The rugged northern portion of the island is the domain of several hundred people who trace their heritage back to the fierce Carib Amerindians who once dominated the Caribbean. Fort Charlotte, a 19th-century British battlement atop a bluff in the capital of Kingstown, features an impressive interpretive display about the Carib culture. Downtown Kingstown is a bustling area, and visitors should see the Botanical Gardens, the oldest such gardens in the Caribbean, which were founded in 1763. Its main attraction is a breadfruit tree that was brought to the island by Capt. William Bligh after he finally completed his voyage from Tahiti after surviving the infamous mutiny aboard the Bounty. Island After Island Young Island: Situated on this tiny island, just 200 yards off the southern shores of the mainland (St. Vincent) is the privately owned Young Island Resort. This 35 room luxury tropical island resort has been designated a national wildlife preserve.

The resort is a haven for rest and relaxation but guests can take part in a range of watersports, sailing, hiking and other activities. Bequia: Lying just a few miles south of St. Vincent. Bequia (pronounced BEK-way), the largest of the Grenadines islands has only one real town, Port Elizabeth; it's a charming, sleepy port of call with a pedestrian footpath that stretches around most of the bay. Shops feature the works of model shipbuilders. Among the attractions are the Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary and a number of galleries and artisans' shops. The whaling heritage runs strong on Bequia. Islanders still bring in one or two whales a year using the traditional methods involving a sailboat and a hand-thrown harpoon. Mustique: This renowned 1,400-acre private island in the Grenadines is known as a favorite hideaway for the world's most discerning travelers. Scattered around the island are 74 extraordinary designer villas for rent, each with its own distinctive architecture and atmosphere.

The Cotton House, the only hotel on the island, is an elegant West Indian-style plantation estate with 17 luxurious guest rooms, cottages and suites, 11 of which feature private plunge pools. Canouan: Home of Grenadines Estate Golf Club; a challenging and exhilarating Jim Fazio 18 hole championship golf course with every hole overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Deemed “Best Golf Course” (Robb Report, June 2005). Union Island with its colorful market and mountain peaks is the ideal place for provisioning your yacht. The island also is a great jump-off point for visiting the nearby Tobago Cays. Tobago Cays: Justly famous for its protected waters is a favourite with yachters and has been identified as a national marine park. The waters of the Tobago Cays are populated with sea turtles which provide friendly swimming companions, making the experience of swimming in the Tobago Cays a magical and memorable one. Mayreau: Just northeast of the Tobago Cays; this tiny 1.25 sq. miles island has scarcely 300 residents, but its lovely palm-lined beach, Saltwhistle Bay is dreamy and magical.

Palm Island: 135 acres of tropical paradise; this island houses the exclusive Palm Island Resort with its huge expanse of tropical white sand beach, shaded by cooling palms. Petite St. Vincent: Home of the ultra exclusive Petit St. Vincent (PSV) Resort; the island offers the ultimate in barefoot elegance and unobtrusive attentive service. With the variety of islands to choose from, the islands of St. Vincent & the Grenadines are ideally suited for the digital detoxing. In 2013 St. Vincent and the Grenadines ranked in the “Top 10 Wellness Travel Trends of 2013." This was as a result of St. Vincent & the Grenadines’ Digital Detox campaign launched in 2012, offering visitors the opportunity “to disconnect” and enjoy a 'de-tech’ stay. Palm Island, Young Island and Petit St. Vincent all offer digital detox packages. Share the love More information about St Vincent and the Grenadines NIGHTLIFE Entertainment includes – Hotel and restaurant dining, dancing, steel band and Calypso music. A few clubs and discos offer Caribbean entertainment. Casino.

AIRLINES Connecting flights with international airlines Air Canada, American Airlines, Caribbean Airlines, JetBlue, US Airways, United Airlines and WestJet, are available at Barbados, Grenada, Martinique, Puerto Rico, St. Lucia and Trinidad. LIAT provide scheduled services to and from many other islands. Mustique Airways, Grenadines Airways, SVG Air, are available for charter. AIRPORTS Bequia: J.F. Mitchell Airport - BQU. Canouan: Canouan Airport - CIW. St. Vincent: E.T. Joshua Airport - SVD. Union Island: Union Island Airport – UNI. ENTRY REQUIREMENTS All visitors including nationals of the USA, and Canada MUST have valid passports. A return or ongoing ticket is also required. Visas are required from Nationals of the following countries before entering St. Vincent and the Grenadines: Dominican Republic, Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, Iran, Nigeria, and China. ACTIVITIES St. Vincent & the Grenadines’ sights and activities are as diverse as the destination itself. St.

Vincent: Gospel Fest, a month long festival held in April, showcases the best Vincentian gospel artistes from various zonal preliminaries, along with performances from regional and international gospel artistes, and presentations in dance and drama. Vincy Mas is a massive Caribbean celebration in music, dance and design, held in June/July. A premiere cultural experience where inhibitions are shed and one can enjoy a release from the daily stresses of life. Nine Mornings is a unique Vincentian festivity associated with the Christmas season. Nine Mornings before Christmas, people awake in the early hours and participate in church services, biking, swimming and street concerts. Diving known as the critter capital of the Caribbean Tourist sites on St. Vincent include: Botanic Gardens. Fort Charlotte. La Soufrière Volcano. Carib Petroglyphs. Falls of Baleine. Dark View Falls. Trinity Falls. Wallilabou Falls. Montreal Gardens. Vermont Nature Trail. Owia Salt Pond. Black Point Tunnel. Belmont Lookout. Cumberland Nature Trail. Rawacou Recreation Park. Sales Aid available: Brochures. Maps. Posters. Website and DVDs.

Bequia: The annual Bequia Music Festival is a four-day musical celebration held in January, with local, regional and international performers. Then at Easter it’s the famous sporting and tourism event - Bequia Easter Regatta. This regatta attracts boat racers from the US, UK and throughout the Caribbean. Sites: Hamilton Battery, the newly refurbished Belmont Walkway, Bequia Maritime Museum and a Turtle Sanctuary Mustique: Commencing the last week in January, the annual Mustique Blues Festival is hosted at the renowned Basil’s Bar. This is one of the region’s most well-recognised musical events, where visitors can enjoy truly world-class performances. Canouan: World-class golf – enjoy this relaxing sport year-round at the Grenadines Estate Golf Course. Canouan Regatta, held in May is more than boat races, it is Canouan’s ultimate cultural experience. Canouan Carnival, an annual cultural event which takes place in July. Mayreau: Mayreau’s Regatta, a five-day event in May, is launched with a fishing competition. Sights Catholic Church, a quaint aged building that provides visitors with a panoramic view of Tobago Cays.

Tobago Cays: Horseshoe Reef – a 40 to 60 foot wall dive with fabulous colors and visibility of up to 120 feet Sail Rock – another splendid wall dive at a depth of 60 to 80 feet Miro Gardens – located between Tobago Cays and Mayreau this 60 foot drift dive is home to spotted eels, stingrays and manta rays. Union Island: Easterval, a cultural extravaganza of pageantry, games and fun, originated in 1966. Sights - Happy Island, home to Happy Island Bar and Restaurant was ingenuously created by a local using conch shells Destination wide: Liming - A natural part of life in St Vincent and the Grenadines. With an amazing array of untouched and incredibly peaceful spots, and a truly laid-back way of life, the beautiful beaches, “rum shacks” and stunning sunsets are the perfect environment to Lime. In January 2013 a ‘Liming Appreciation Society’ was launched across St Vincent and the Grenadines’ social media channels. With Dr.

Vince E Lime heading up the society, the group will make it their mission to truly master the art of Liming and make sure they spread the word globally. Members will be able to enter competitions, share liming stories, music, recipes and more. The society will pay homage to the art of liming, from the most chilled out hangouts, blissed out beaches, cooling cocktails to the best hammocks, the society will have it covered and encourage everyone to share their tips and experiences. To find out more about Liming and to become a member of SVG’s Liming Appreciation Society visit us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter. MARRIAGE REQUIREMENTS Documents required: Individual passports plus EC $20.00 stamp and all legal documents for divorce or death of previous spouse. An application for a Special Marriage License should be completed after a stay of 1 day. An additional fee of EC $500.00 is then paid to the Treasury. St. Vincent and the Grenadines 2017: Best of St. Vincent and the Grenadines Tourism - TripAdvisor Things to Do More There are 32 islands and cays that make up St.

Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG). Nine are inhabited, including the mainland St. Vincent and the Grenadines islands: Young Island, Bequia, Mustique, Canouan, Union Island, Mayreau, Petit St Vincent and Palm Island. The stunning Tobago Cays National Marine Park is also located within SVG. This multi-island Caribbean nation offers a combination of rainforest eco-adventures, scuba diving, classic Caribbean powder-white sand beaches, luxury accommodation and yachting or sailing adventures. Read more Read less Island History - Mustique (St.Vincent and The Grenadines) - Caribbean Vacation Villas of Mustique - History of Mustique Island (St.Vincent and The Grenadines) The Spanish sailors who first sighted the Grenadines in the late 15th century called them "Los Pajoros" - The Birds, because from the horizon they looked like tiny birds in flight. The less fanciful pirates, who in the 16th and 17th centuries hid their ships from enemies in the sheltered bays of these islands, called them The Grenadines. The English adopted the name when they invaded and took control during the reign of Charles I.

Geophysically, the Grenadines resulted from a volcanic eruption of Grenada. Politically, the northern Islands, which include Mustique, are part of St.Vincent and The Grenadines. The Islands were inhabited by the Arawaks, and later by the Caribs whose simple tools can still be found. They were ousted by European planters in the 1740's who found they could grow sugar there in abundance. Because Europe's only sources of sugar at that time were limited quantities from the Canaries and Cyprus, the West Indies became economically significant. During the 18th century, Mustique, like other British territories, was heavily defended against the French. Three forts were built at strategic points: Liverpool, Percival, and Shandy. Their remains, including several cannon, can still be seen. Nelson's long blockade of Europe and final Caribbean victory over French Admiral Villeneuve in 1804, cut the French off from their supply of West Indian sugar. Soon after, farmers discovered that sugar beets could be grown in Europe. This led to a rapid decay of life in The Grenadines, and eventually, abandonment.

On Mustique, the jungle grew over the seven sugar plantations: Endeavour, Rutland, Old Plantation, East Lot, Adelphi, Campbell Valley, and Aberdeen. Only the sugar mill at Endeavour and its "Cotton House" remain. In 1835, Mustique was regranted by the Crown as two plantations as it had potential for survival. Although united in 1865 into one estate by the Hazell family of St.Vincent, Mustique existed in a sort of limbo. In 1958, it was purchased by the Honourable Colin Tennant. No jetty existed when Colin Tennant purchased Mustique. Hers of wild cattle and sheep roamed the Island. About 100 people lived in the dilapidated village of Cheltenham near the Cotton House. They worked a few fields of cotton, peas, and corn in a sharing arrangement with the Hazell family. During the next few years, life improved on Tennant's private estate. In 1964, a new village called Lovell was created. By 1968, it supported a plantation of 250 acres of sea island cotton.

New groves of coconut palms had been cultivated and limes, oranges, grapefruit, tangerines and vegetables were being exported. The wild livestock was brought under control and a fishing industry prospered, largely worked by men from nearby Bequia. Mustique was nearly self-supporting. Other than yachts, like the Royal Britannia, taking advantage of ideal sailing conditions, there were few visitors to Mustique, though word spread about its beauty. Princess Margaret accepted Colin Tenant's 10-acre plot of Mustique land as a wedding present in 1960. In 1968, a change of policy opened Mustique to outsiders who were willing to preserve the Island's original character. An economic development agreement was entered into between the government of St.Vincent and The Mustique Company. The agreement covered a broad spectrum of innovative fiscal and social plans including strategies to encourage tourism and the building of private homes, but numbering no more than 140. The plan, which was renewed in amended form in 1989, transformed Mustique Island from a family estate into a community of people dedicated to maintaining and enhancing their shares of the land for generations to come.

In 1969, the airport was opened, the first new villas were built, and the Cotton House opened as an inn. The first villas and the Cotton House were designed by the British theatrical designer, Oliver Messel. Other improvements followed: a comprehensive road network, reliable electricity and communications, fresh water from a desalination plant, a well-equipped medical clinic, and convenient air transport services. Mustique has a clearly defined and well-maintained commercial area with shops, a beach bar and restaurant. Children attend an excellent school supported by an educational trust, and all islanders have medical insurance provided by a medical trust. Since 1968, more than $100 million has been invested in Mustique. Mustique's progress has had a favourable effect on St.Vincent. After the St.Vincent government, Mustique is the largest employer of St.Vincent residents, and as such, contributes significantly to the gross national product. Many new homes on St.Vincent were built with money earned on Mustique. In spite of all the development, Mustique ahs retained its privacy and tranquility. Protecting the environment and the peaceful way of life is of paramount importance to all who live and vacation here.

It is one of the cleanest and most secure places in the world. for more information and/or reservations GoBeach Vacations - | | - Your source for the best Caribbean vacation you've ever had! St. Vincent & Grenadines Hotels and Resorts from WhereToStay Nightly Rate: Where to Stay in St. Vincent & Grenadines - Hotels Many of the hotels in St. Vincent and the Grenadines exude the feeling of being a luxurious private home rather than a hotel. More colorful and intimate than larger hotel chains, they capture the flavor of the islands, but still offer modern amenities like pools, spas, and fine restaurants. Resorts aren't as plentiful as they are on some of the other islands, but the resorts that are available are large, luxurious, and have something to offer everyone in your party. The Palm Island Resort is a fine example of an accommodation that will exceed your expectations. What Islands Are Close to Barbados? | Getaway Tips - azcentral.com What Islands Are Close to Barbados? by Sue Gabel Share on Facebook Barbados is a small Caribbean island of 166 square miles known as the birthplace of rum.

It is part of the Lesser Antilles group of islands and receives more than 3,000 hours of sunshine per year. Barbados sits near a few neighboring islands that can be reached by local ferry services, chartered boat tours or Caribbean-based inter-island flights. St. Vincent and the Grenadines About 100 miles to the west, St. Vincent and the Grenadines are the closest islands to Barbados. As a whole, more than 30 small islands are in this group. St. Vincent is the largest island, encompassing 133 square miles, while the Grenadines range in size from the largest at seven square miles to the smallest at about a quarter of a square mile. Activities available in this group of islands includes lagoon snorkeling, diving among coral reefs, hiking to waterfalls, wildlife watching and windsurfing. The least-expensive transportation option is through Bedy Oceanline (bedytravel.com), which offers ferry service from Barbados to St. Vincent at least once a day, up to five days a week. Travelers may also utilize one of several costlier inter-island airlines that fly out to a variety of islands multiple times per day. St.

Lucia A few miles north of St. Vincent is St. Lucia, one of the Caribbean's top all-inclusive honeymooning destinations. Travelers from Barbados can take the Bedy Oceanline ferry service to St. Lucia, but it travels that route only one day a week. The island of St. Lucia is home to Sandal's all-inclusive resorts and provides the perfect romantic setting for couples looking to get away from it all. The island is outlined in white sandy beaches and fringed with glorious palm trees and crystal blue waters as far as the eye can see. The island offers adventures in kite surfing, horseback riding on the beach, diving, snorkeling and zip lining above the rain forest's tree tops. Grenada Just southwest of Barbados lies the island of Grenada. The most common way to reach this island is via LIAT Airlines (liatairline.com), which is based in the Caribbean. After suffering a horrendous hurricane in 2004, the "Spice Isle" has restored itself to its former luster. Places to visit on this island include its numerous waterfalls, snorkeling lagoons and bright-white sandy beaches, as well as the postcard-perfect town of St.

George's, with its colonial-constructed homes and buildings. Trinidad and Tobago To reach the islands of Trinidad and Tobago, which lie to the southwest of Barbados, travelers have to book an inter-island flight or charter a boat. Once on the set of islands, the T&T; Inter-Island Ferry Service (ttitferry.com) travels between the two, or you can opt for the Caribbean Airlines (caribbean-airlines.com) air bridge, which operates between the islands about a dozen times per day. The islands celebrate a number of events throughout the year, including a two-day Carnival, the Divali festival of lights and Emancipation Day, which commemorates when the islands declared the end of slavery. Martinique The French-speaking island of Martinique is about 23 miles north of St. Lucia. From Barbados, travelers have to first fly or take a ferry to St. Lucia, then travel by boat for about an hour and a half to either the port of Saint Pierre or Fort de France, via L'Express des Iles (express-des-iles.com) inter-island transport.

Martinique has an average year-round temperature of 79 degrees Fahrenheit, making it seem as though its summer is never-ending. The island has a diverse topography consisting of mountains, rain forests, rivers, lagoons and miles of sandy beaches. Some of the more popular activities here include trail hiking, snorkeling, sailing, kite surfing and kayaking. References Petit St. Vincent - SVG, Caribbean - Private Islands for Rent Save Print Share Inquire About Petit St. Vincent Petit St. Vincent (better known locally as PSV), which lies 40 miles south of St. Vincent, is a paradise of softly rolling hills spread over 115 acres of lush landscape. Under new ownership and management, this hidden gem is ready for the limelight once again. Surrounded by over a mile of white sand beach, the idyllic retreat beckons with swimming, windsurfing, snorkeling, sailing, diving, beach cabanas and sea-side room service. There are 22 newly renovated cottages spread out for maximum privacy and comfort. The unique flag communication system adds charm to the attentive and unobtrusive service. There is tennis day and night, colorful Caribbean cocktails, and the finest island cuisine.

Perfect for romantic couples or families who want private time to themselves, Petit St. Vincent has added in 2011 a new beach restaurant and bar, a hillside spa and a wine cellar. Lying well off the tourist mainstream, the private island could be best described by what is not there. There is no airport, no formal check in, no keys. There are no televisions nor are there telephones in the cottages. Guests arriving at Union Island airport (usually from Barbados) are escorted to the dock for a short 20-minute private boat ride to the island. Above all however, there is privacy, relaxation and attentive service. Here, amid untouched nature and surrounded by warm, crystal-clear, turquoise water, one senses that the island is one's own. Read More The truly hermitic guests don't have to meet another visitor. Room service is available for all meals, either in your own cottage or at any other location on the island. Many guests however, choose to make use of the island's beautiful bar and dining room as well as the new beach bar and restaurant for most of their meals or to socialize. The new beach restaurant offers fresh, mostly grilled island cuisine as well as comfort foods.

The new beach bar serves specialty cocktails in a shaded, laid back setting overlooking the main anchorage. Accommodations are probably like none you have previously enjoyed in any resort. Instead of a hotel room, you will have your own spacious cottage with a separate sitting room, one or two bedrooms, dressing area, and completely renovated bathroom and shower facilities. The extensive renovations in 2011 include installing air conditioning, new custom-built furniture from Bali, raised pavilions, open space living areas, sun decks, covered patios and daybeds, ceiling fans, teak lounge chairs, refrigerated mini-bars and large hammocks. Top of the line toiletries, bed linens, towels, bathrobes, Nespresso coffee makers, hair dryer, iron, beach towels and bags, as well as cribs and strollers available on demand complete the picture. Built of native stone and wood, and discreetly scattered over hillside, cliff and beaches, each cottage has stunning views of the breathtaking vistas of Petit St. Vincent and the southern Grenadines, while offering peace and quiet. Adventures Petit St. Vincent resort has many activities on and around the island for you to enjoy, most at no additional charge.

Sailing and Kayaking We have steady breezes that are perfect for sailing here at PSV. At the dockhouse we have Hobie Cats, Sunfish, windsurfers, and glass bottom kayaks. Snorkeling If you want to snorkel off our sandy shores, snorkeling equipment is available at the dock (exceptional opportunities are only a few yards from the beach). Mopion Island is a small sand spit island not far from PSV, great for snorkeling and swimming. A picnic lunch for two can be arranged there for the ultimate getaway. Tennis There is a lighted tennis court surrounded by fragrant flowers and bushes, where guests play during the cooler hours of the day. Hiking A hike to the summit is not to be missed. The path winds through untouched tropical jungle and past banyan and rubber trees with local orchids nestling on the branches. At the top, the views of the surrounding islands and ocean are magnificent; there is a sense of utter tranquility. Day Charters If you would like to go off the island, we have day charters and scuba diving (not included in the price). Several sailboats or speedboats are available to take you to the Tobago Cays or neighboring islands.

Personal itineraries can be made for a fun filled day of snorkeling, fishing, or just exploring. Scuba Diving We can arrange for scuba diving instruction and equipment rentals from certified operators. Spa Treatments The hillside spa we added features four airy treatment rooms and a pavilion build of driftwood, timber and thatched roofs, all unobtrusively nestled into the trees. In addition to top-of-the-line products, our Balinese spa manager will ensure you get pampered and rejuvenated in true private island style. History Distinct from many Caribbean resorts, Petit St. Vincent is not part of a hotel chain. Rather, it is the legacy of the late Hazen K. Richardson II. The story begins in 1963, when Haze, fresh out of the Air Force, purchased a 77-foot schooner, Jacinta, with his flying buddy, Doug Terman, and headed south from New York. Along the way they met an agent who agreed to sell charters on their yacht, and picked up their first customer, Mr. H.W. Nichols and his family, in Grenada. During his three-week cruise, Nichols expressed interest in purchasing an island.

With such a transaction in mind, in 1965 Haze and Doug concentrated their search on the Grenadine island chain. Anchoring at Petit St. Vincent, which was then uninhabited, they learned that the island was owned by a woman who lived on the neighboring island of Petit Martinique. Though it was rumored that she would never sell, Haze and Doug persisted, and were eventually invited into her home to talk. A deal was struck, and arrangements were made for Haze, Doug and Mr. Nichols to purchase the island and build a small hotel. In May 1966 Haze and Doug returned to Petit St. Vincent to clear the necessary land. They lived on Jacinta for seven months, plucking their meals fresh from the sea. Though the initial plan had been to find a manager for the hotel, before completion in December 1968 Mr. Nichols asked Haze to stay on as a "temporary" manager. He did, and as time wore on, he eventually became the full owner of Petit St. Vincent.

In January 2007, Robin Paterson was sailing through the Grenadines on his yacht Zanzibar when he first spotted Petit St. Vincent, and immediately fell in love with the Island. By coincidence, two years later Robin's friend Phil Stephenson sailed past the island on his yacht Galileo and also became infatuated with its charm and beauty. With such strong mutual interest, Robin and Phil resolved to purchase this spectacular island and to invest in it in order to realize its full potential. Already described in many "Top 10 lists as the perfect hideaway resort, the two friends planned to bring this property into a class of its own in terms of natural beauty, architectural finishes, sports and leisure activities, food, wine and service excellence. Their tenacity eventually paid off and in November 2010, Phil and Robin bought the freehold to the 115-acre private island. The new owners' vision is to maintain the pristine and private nature of the island, while offering more comfort and superior amenities and service.

To that end the existing cottages were renovated and refurnished, the backbone infrastructure overhauled and expanded (power, water, plumbing, electrical, landscaping, etc.) and new facilities were added, such as the casual beach restaurant and bar, and the hillside spa. All work is to be complete by November 2011. Enlarge Map Adjust Elevation Regional Information Email To a Friend Print Brochure Save Property Send an Inquiry Search Islands For Rent Windward Islands Map - Leeward Islands Map - Satellite Image Windward and Leeward Islands Map What are the Windward Islands? The Windward Islands are located on the eastern edge of the Caribbean Sea and form the southeastern boundary between the Caribbean and the Atlantic Ocean. The Windward group includes the islands of Martinique, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Grenada. Some geographers include Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago in the Windward Islands. What are the Leeward Islands? The Leeward Islands are located on the eastern edge of the Caribbean Sea and form the northeastern boundary between the Caribbean and the Atlantic Ocean. The Leeward group includes: the U.S.

Virgin Islands, the British Virgin Islands, Anguilla, Saint Martin, Saint-Barthelemy, Saba, Sint Eustatius, Saint Kitts, Nevis, Barbuda, Antiqua, Redonda, Montserrat and Guadeloupe. What are the Leeward Antilles? The Leeward Antilles is a chain of islands in the southern Caribbean Sea off the coast of Venezuela. They include Aruba, Curacao, Bonaire, Isla la Tortuga and Isla la Margarita. How were Windward and Leeward named? Early sailing ships crossing the Atlantic took advantage of the trade winds and ocean currents. These often delivered them to the edge of the Caribbean Sea near Dominica and Martinique. The Windward Islands were named because they were more windward at this location than the Leeward Islands. Geologic Setting: The Windward and Leeward Islands are positioned on the eastern edge of the Caribbean Plate. This is an area of modern and historic volcanism. The islands are mainly volcanic with some coral contributions. They have a rich volcanic soil that supports a small agricultural economy. Economy: The Windward and Leeward Islands have a warm, mild climate and are frequent stops of the Caribbean cruise industry.

Tourism is their most important source of outside income. They have a small agricultural economy and crops such as bananas, spices, limes, sugar, cotton, coffee, tobacco and cacao are grown for export. More Maps and Satellite Images St Vincent prepares to open new international airport in 2014 | Caribbean360 St Vincent prepares to open new international airport in 2014 Recipient Email Enter a Message I read this article and found it very interesting, thought it might be something for you. The article is called St Vincent prepares to open new international airport in 2014 and is located at Captcha 0 Kenton X. Chance KINGSTOWN, St. Vincent, Monday January 27, 2014, CMC – Six years after construction work began, St. Vincent and the Grenadines is getting ready to cut the ribbons to declare open its first ever international airport.

The Ralph Gonsalves government is hoping that the EC$700 million (One EC dollar = US$0.37 cents) international airport at Argyle, will be completed by the end of this year, even as the main opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) continues to cast doubt on the project, situated on the island’s east coast. When he delivered his budget statement earlier this month, Prime Minister Gonsalves said that the airport was “on target for completion by the end of 2014”. At the end of last year, the Taiwanese firm, Overseas Engineering Construction Company, handed over the US$28 million terminal building along with the electrical substation to the International Airport Development Company (IADC), the state company responsible for the construction of the airport. IADC chief executive officer, Rudy Matthias, believes the airport could be completed as early as July. “First and most importantly, I want to tell you that our terminal building is now complete…and we expect that by July 2014 to complete the final pavement works on the runway and the apron.

So, in a sense, by July .., God’s willing, we are going to have a completed terminal building and a runway and apron having been paved. Essentially, that is our airport,” he said late last month. Last week, Prime Minister Gonsalves gave Parliament an idea of the scope of work still to be done at the airport. He said that at the end of last year, 89 per cent of the earthworks had been completed and sea defence works, which began on August 12, 2013, would extend into mid-2014. Work is being done at the southern end of the runway to allow for the installation of the simple approach lighting system and drainage works are scheduled to be completed in June. Gonsalves told legislators that the laying of stony base materials on the runway, which began in September 2013, was slated to continue this month. When the laying of the base is completed, the placing of the final layers of asphalt and concrete pavement of the aprons, taxiways, and runway, will begin. The authorities say installation of the lighting equipment will be done during the first quarter of the year.

But work on the control tower and aircraft rescue and fire fighting building are yet to begin. The construction of these facilities is scheduled to be completed in August. The IADC has made a deposit on three fire-fighting trucks and equipment to allow for their delivery by September 2014. The contract for the construction of the air cargo terminal is expected to be awarded by March 2014, for completion of construction by September 2014. Gonsalves said the IADC was holding talks with relevant private operators for the financing, construction, and operation of a fixed based operation and several aircraft hangars, adding that work on these projects would begin soon. But Opposition leader Arnhim Eustace is not impressed. He has pointed to the level of disbursement, rather than the scale of works or the availability of funds, as he casts doubts on the Prime Minister’s prediction. “This level of disbursement, which I anticipate can exceed EC$250 million, if everything was to go as planned, will not be achieved,” said the economist and former prime minister. “We do not have the implementation capacity … and our history shows it.

… It is rare that we have ever exceeded 100 million dollars [in a year]. “I, therefore, have grave doubt about our ability to complete the airport in 2014,” he said. When completed, the airport will have a runway 9,000 feet long and 150 feet wide. The passenger terminal building, which has separate sections for domestic and international travellers, is designed to handle about 1.5 million passengers annually. The airport is being built to accommodate jets as large as Boeing 747-400s and will allow for direct flights to St. Vincent and the Grenadines from the United States, Canada, Europe, and South America, Gonsalves said. But notwithstanding its potential to transform the local economy, the international airport, has been a divisive project since Gonsalves proposed it in 2005, with most position on the project being informed by their politics. The airport was a central campaign issue of the general elections campaigns of 2005 and 2010 and will no doubt be again in the next poll, constitutionally due in 2015.

Political observers say if the airport is completed by the time of the next general elections and the country is already reaping the benefits from the years of sacrifice, the ruling Unity Labour Party (ULP), which is vying for a fourth consecutive term in office, will understandably claim credit. But if it fails to be completed in time, the political observers say the government will, as it has done in the past, point to the tough economic times or other challenges and urge voters to stick with the project. Eustace and other opposition politicians are expected to raise counter arguments, insisting that the project is too much of an expensive venture for the island of less than 100,000 people. In 2005, the estimated cost of the airport was EC$480.6 million. But after the final designs for the airfield in December 2007, the cost was revised to EC$589 million. In late 2008, increasing to EC$700 million due mainly to the higher cost of construction, increased earth and site works, and purchase of acquired lands.

Last year, the government said that it needed US$80 million to complete the airport, and after receiving Parliament’s permission to borrow some of the funds, said that it had secured all the monies needed to complete the project. “The IADC has assured me that once it receives all the earmarked resources on a timely basis, it would meet the deadlines it has given to the Government,” Gonsalves told legislators last week. The government is hoping that some of the international airlines will begin discussions for service agreements in 2014. But Eustace has said that the government borrowed much more than the EC$80 million saying that the figure was EC$158 million. He said the country could ill afford that amount at a time when it is dealing with damages caused by a low level trough over the Christmas holidays estimated at EC$300 million. “What has suddenly changed to allow us to exceed maybe 250 million dollars in disbursements in a single financial year? What is there in our system to facilitate that kind of level of disbursement?” Eustace asked. Click here to receive free news bulletins via email from Caribbean360. ( View sample )

Question: Complete the name of the Caribbean island group, "St Vincent and..."
Answer: THE GRENADINES